Thank you for your interest in getting a guide dog from Guide Dogs of Texas. To begin the process of getting a guide dog, please fill out the application form or give us a call at (210) 366-4081. If you are seeking information for a loved one, have them call us.

• If you qualify, an instructor will contact you to discuss your routes and the application process.
• If you and your instructor determine that a guide dog might benefit you, they will send you a physician’s report for your doctor to fill out. Return both sections via mail, fax, or email.
• Once your complete application is received, an instructor will call to coordinate a visit.
• Visits typically take about half a day. Your instructor will ask to see several routes using your current mobility aid. You should be able to do these routes without assistance. Your routes will demonstrate the types of areas in which you work.
• This visit does not guarantee you a guide dog, and the wait list is about one year. Our process is not first come, first serve.
• Guide Dogs of Texas does not have a “first-come, first-served” matching procedure. Every applicant awaiting training is considered bi-annually to create the best match possible.
• Preference of matching is typically given to those who have waited the longest.
• Priority is given to current clients in need of re-training with another dog from Guide Dogs of Texas to minimize time without a guide dog
• The average wait time from the time you are accepted as a candidate to the time you receive your guide dog is 1 to 2 years
• While waiting for a dog, please be assured that we are working hard to ensure the best match for you, so we always welcome you to check on your status
• When a suitable match is found from the dogs in training, an instructor will call to let you know and give you some brief information about your potential dog
• The instructor will set up a visit for your potential dog to be introduced to you and your home
• During this visit, you and the dog will take a short walk, and if you and your instructor are satisfied with the match, training classes will be scheduled